Description
Fresh and vibrant Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans combines crisp, juicy pears with creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) and toasted pecans. Tossed with mixed greens and a tangy, slightly sweet apple cider vinegar dressing, this salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or elegant starter that highlights the best of autumn flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 crisp, ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, baby kale)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pears and Greens: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Core and thinly slice the fresh pears, keeping the slices uniform for easy eating and a nice presentation.
- Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned to unlock a deeper flavor and add crunch.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and freshly ground pepper until emulsified and well balanced, ensuring the dressing is bright but not overpowering.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad quickly to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their peak. If needed, the salad can hold briefly if dressed just before serving.
Notes
- Choose firm pears for a crisp bite that holds shape well.
- Toast nuts just before assembling to preserve crunch and flavor.
- Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing and soggy greens.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for a creamy texture without heaviness.
- Keep the salad chilled until serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: autumn pear salad, mozzarella salad, pecan salad, fall salad, mixed greens salad, healthy salad